Tom Daley Dates a Man but Won't Define Sexuality Yet

December 02, 2013 15:06:12 GMT

The Olympic bronze medal diving winner felt right about his current relationship with a man, whose identity he kept a secret.

Photo credit: /WENN

Hunky British Olympic diver Tom Daley decided to get honest with his fans after being misquoted in an interview. In a YouTube broadcast on his page, the 19-year-old confessed that he's dating a man but would not define his sexuality yet.

"This has been a hard decision to make, but I wanted you to hear this from me," Daley began. "In spring this year my life changed massively when I met someone, and they make me feel so happy, so safe and everything just feels great." He had dated several girls in the past but none of the relationship was serious.

The Devon native continued, "That someone is a guy. It did take me by surprise a little bit. It was always in my head that something like that could happen. But it wasn't until spring this year that things just clicked. It felt right and I thought 'Okay' and my whole world changed there and then."

Daley added, "Of course I still fancy girls but right now I'm dating a guy and I couldn't be happier." He believed his deceased father would have approved it as long as he's happy, so would his mother. However, it has not been an easy journey to tell some of his other family members and friends. "Lots of them did not believe it," he said. "Lots of them wanted me to keep it quiet. I didn't want to get my words twisted."

Daley concluded, "I wanted to put an end to all the rumours and speculation, and just say it and tell you guys. It's what I want to do. My friends and family are always there to support me and I hope you guys can be too." He did not reveal the identity of his boyfriend.

Daley's coming out has prompted response from several people. Edward Lord, chairman of the Amateur Swimming Association, said, "To be one of the first British Olympic athletes to come out is very brave. ... I am very proud of Tom." Meanwhile, gay rights campaigners Stonewall tweeted, "Moving and inspiring video from @TomDaley1994. A role model for thousands of other young people."